College of Medicine welcomes class of 2028, including first cohort of community medicine MD track during white coat ceremony ​

The Ohio State University College of Medicine recently conducted its 2024 White Coat Ceremony to mark the entrance of the Class of 2028 into the medical profession. More than 224 white coats were distributed, including 15 to learners entering the new Community Medicine Medical Degree Track (CMT). This cohort will train to care for patients in rural and smaller communities to address a national physician shortage in these populations. They will complete the first two years of study in Columbus and the remaining two years completing their core clinical experiences within Bon Secours Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima.

The diverse group of the class were selected through a holistic review from a pool of 7,634 applicants. They have majored in everything from Engineering and Economics to Theatre Arts, History and Music. 11% of them are first-generation medical students.

Carol R. Bradford, MD, MS, FACS, dean of the Ohio State College of Medicine, welcomed the new class of students and imparted valuable insights to everyone present.

“As you take your first steps toward becoming the next generation of health care leaders, you are pursuing a profession that is truly a calling rather than a job,” Dr. Bradford said. “You will learn how to provide empathetic, patient-centered care and see how life-altering discoveries can transform that care.”

Dr. Bradford recognized that the journey will be challenging, but also tremendously rewarding. Some of the learners will become specialists or surgeons and some will focus on primary care and prepare for careers as physician-scientists.  Dr. Bradford said all will become fierce advocate for their patients.

The incoming class come from 29 different states, including Hawaii, speak more than 27 languages and their unique mix of disciplines will bring unique perspectives to the classroom and the clinical settings. 

 The event included other inspirational messages from College of Medicine leaders, including C. Alexander Grieco, MD, associate dean for Student Life at the Ohio State College of Medicine, who kicked off the symbolic celebration.  Jennifer McCallister, MD, associate dean for Medical Education at the Ohio State College of Medicine, likened the white coat to a representation of a commitment to advance science and begin the journey from learner to physician.

Demicha Rankins, MD, associate dean for Admissions at the College of Medicine shared that the incoming class consists of an amazing group of individuals who are inspirational, and a reminder of the role educators play in welcoming them to the noble profession. Dr. Bradford also shared a reminder of the duties and responsibilities that come with receiving the white coat.

“Students, as you don your white coats today, you are joining an amazing group of individuals who have sworn to be caring, empathetic, devoted and selfless — and who are bound to the noble mission of caring for humanity,” Dr. Bradford said.